At Bella Vida we often encourage moms to do lots of skin to skin & also to babywear if that's something they wish to do.
One of our very favourite topics that we've read & learned about in our childbirth education and continuing nursing studies is the description of the first 3 months after birth as the "fourth trimester" for both moms & babies. Lots of TLC, skin to skin, and babywearing is so great for new moms, dads and their babies.
Our friend Natalie of Go Green Baby has offered us and our readers some great tips on Babywearing for the newborn period & beyond. We really appreciate her always sharing her expertise with us, and are so excited that she's offered to answer some FAQ's for us on the BVB blog!
Why carry your baby?
Babywearing is a wonderful experience for both mom and baby. Babywearing gives moms, dads and babies the opportunity to bond, share skin to skin contact and spend time enjoying each other.
Babies love being worn! They enjoy the safety and security of being snuggle in close to mom or dad. Baby feels comfortable, will be able to hear your heart beat and will be kept warm while remaining close to mom and dad.
Wearing your baby also provides an excellent opportunity for mom and dad to be able to remain active and take part in everyday activities without having to worry about leaving baby alone. Walking the dog, clearing out the dishwasher, folding laundry can all be done while wearing your baby!
When do you start wearing your baby?
Babywearing from birth is the ideal time to start (but not necessary). Newborn babies come into a noisy, cold and bright world. Being able to place them in a carrier close to your warm body will ease them into their new environment. Babywearing a newborn gives them an “in womb” experience.
What options are available for babywearing?
Wraps and slings are ideal carriers for new babies. They are designed to have baby close to mom or dad and meant to keep baby warm and secure. Wraps are a long piece of fabric that is tied around the body (I promise it is easier than it looks!). Wraps are the ultimate in security, comfort and warmth for new babies. They offer excellent support for mom and baby and allow mom and dad to be 100% hands free!Wraps are usually worn up until 20lbs. Slings are a little different in wraps in that they are one shoulder and require no wrapping. Slings are easy to use and are designed for quick use. The main downside to slings is that they do not offer quite as much support as a wrap. The other drawback is that most often moms and dads do not feel as confident using their sling for hands free capabilities; therefore, getting tasks done around the home is slightly more difficult with a sling.
Mei Tais are an excellent alternative to the wrap, with a little less wrapping and a longer period of use. A mei tai is an asian inspired carrier. This is a basic two shoulder carrier. It is a square piece of fabric with straps at each corner. The two bottom straps tie around the waist, the two shoulder straps cross over for support and security. Mei Tais will work wonderfully with newborns and will remain secure and comfortable for toddler carrying (up to 35 lbs).
Soft Structured Carriers are a two shoulder carrier that also includes a waist band. These carriers offer shape and form even when the carrier is not being worn. They look similar to a back pack and offer excellent support and comfort for the wearer. These carriers work especially well with older babies due to the fact that they offer more support (most supporting babies up to 40-45 lbs!).
How do I know which carrier is for me and my baby?
It is always a great idea to come into Go Green Baby, or your local babywearing store and try out different carriers to figure out which carrier is right for you and your baby.
Ideally, we suggest using a wrap for the first 6 months and then switching to a soft structured carrier. A wrap carrier is the only one you will want to have prior to the arrival of baby. You will want to be able practice tying and you will also want a comfy carrier ready for when baby arrives. All other carriers should ideally be tried on with your baby so that you can get a true representation of how you feel in the carrier and how baby reacts. Different carriers fit everyone differently. What works for me, may not necessarily be comfortable for you or your baby.
Many families take advantage of our Babywearing Trial Program. Borrow 3 carriers of your choice from our selection for a one week period for $25. At the end of your one week trial, you will return your carriers. If you purchase a carrier from Go Green Baby within 1 month, you will be reimbursed your $25 fee on your purchase! This is a great way to test out carriers in the comfort of your home and to allow partners and spouses an opportunity to try out a carrier.
Please contact Go Green Baby for further details about this program.
Thank-you Natalie for your excellent tips & information on baby-wearing!!
